The two-hour program Nov. 11 will be a taped and edited version of the final table. Officials plan to delay the start of heads-up play until "late in the evening" on Nov. 10, with a champion likely being crowned in the wee hours of Nov. 11.

For WSOP commissioner Jeffrey Pollack, the decision was all about adding intrigue.

"Our intent is to provide an even stronger tournament for all poker players and the entire poker industry," Pollack said. "Now fans will ask 'who will win' our coveted championship bracelet and millions of dollars instead of 'Who won?' The excitement and interest that will surround our final nine players will be unprecedented."

ESPN already has scheduled a WSOP final table preview show for Nov. 4.